I have / had even the competing product HoMedics SP-19H-EU shiatsu massage cushion (with heating function), with which I have made very good experiences, but had ceded my mother, at which so strong sciatica had set due to spinal degeneration, that she could barely walk. After already short use phase with the massage cushion their complaints eased considerably and it is now part of their daily treatment.
I myself have for a herniated disc very strong tension in the back and I've now bought to replace the one described here Ecomed Pillow - in July 2014 half-price (19,50) as the HoMedics, but with the same effectiveness. Compared with its predecessor, the Ecomed is much quieter, you only hear a gentle purr. I think it's good that there is no wired remote control is that you not need. The sunken into the pillow Benutzungspaneel "On / Off" and "heat" is ideal. During the HoMedics heat switching had a barely noticeable effect, the Ecomed is nice and warm, which is very beneficial for your back and muscles, particularly in the cold season.
Such massage cushion really bring a very effective relief from tension. You have no complicated appointments, but it can just use short times when time and needed. Thus, it can be easily integrated into daily life and has given me - helped - with strong disc problems and really bad tension.